Nanoclusters are agglomerates of a finite
number of
atoms or molecules, from a few to thousands, forming a bridge between
small
molecules and crystalline materials. The evolution of their properties
and
structures can be traced as a function of size, and quantum effects
unique to
finite systems can be observed.

Our research concentrates on studying
free clusters
(flying in a beam), which offers two benefits. First, this enables us
to use
mass spectrometry and therefore provides absolutely precise knowledge
of
cluster size and composition. Secondly, this guarantees that the
cluster is
free of any external influences, such as substrates and solvents.

This is a genuinely interdisciplinary
field
of nanoscience research, contacting condensed-matter, molecular,
atomic, and
even nuclear physics, and having practical implications for surface
science,
quantum dot electronics, nanoscale materials synthesis, catalysis,
atmospheric
science, biological physics and sensing, etc. The lab employs the
arsenal of
beam spectroscopy tools to investigate, in a controlled manner and
with a
precise knowledge of size, a variety of important prototype systems.